Background enamel is white to bluish-white in color, is generally smooth, and tends to have a matte, or low-gloss surface finish. The tin enamel surface is often poorly bonded, and tends to flake off the paste body more readily than majolica or faience.

Vessel exteriors are decorated by sponging blue or purple (manganese) over the surface. Sponging can cover the surface of the vessel, serve as a background for painted panels or cartouches, or form major elements of a design.

Interior can be plain or hand painted with blue or polychrome designs.